Highlights
KitchenAid, a subsidiary of Whirlpool Corporation, has been synonymous with durability and innovation in kitchen appliances. Since its founding in 1919, the brand has produced a line of dishwashers that serious home cooks and families rely on, each equipped with advanced drying technologies and customizable features. KitchenAid’s lineup brings form and function together in perfect harmony.
Build Quality & Durability
KitchenAid prioritizes durability with stainless steel interiors that resist stains, odors, and wear. The premium construction ensures long-lasting performance, making the brand a reliable choice for heavy-duty use. While robust, maintenance can be slightly more involved compared to simpler models like Whirlpool.
Washing Performance
KitchenAid dishwashers have technologies such as the ProWash™ cycle and an advanced filtration system that make for better cleaning, even with the toughest baked-on food. Moreover, it has a FreeFlex™ third rack that adds room for utensils and small items so that every load can come out perfectly clean. Sometimes longer cycle times compared to the competition, but cleaning performance always impresses.
Energy & Water Efficiency
ENERGY STAR® certification means KitchenAid dishwashers use a minimum amount, of up to 3.5 gallons, per cycle. Advanced sensors, such as the ProWash™ sensor system, enable these machines to auto-adjust the water and energy needed for proper cleaning, based on the size of the load inside, keeping efficiency high without compromise.
Capacity & Rack Adjustability
From the FreeFlex™ third rack to the adjustable middle racks, no other dishwasher offers more flexibility. Tall glasses, large pots, and more will fit with ease. And with an industry-leading 16 place settings, families and entertainers can fit all their dishes in a single cycle.
Wash Cycles & Programs
Offering a wide range of cycles, KitchenAid dishwashers include options like ProWash™, Tough, Normal, and Express Wash. The Extended ProDry™ cycle is particularly noteworthy, ensuring that even plastic items emerge completely dry. While the cycle selection is versatile, longer cycle times may not appeal to users who prioritize speed.
Design & Installation
KitchenAid dishwashers boast clean lines, along with personalized handles to accommodate different kitchen tastes. Panel-ready options allow this dishwasher to perfectly fit into your cabinetry for a built-in look. These dishwashers are easy to install, so they are appealing to both a homeowner and contractor alike.
Features & Technologies
Features such as the FreeFlex™ third rack and ProDry™ system set KitchenAid dishwashers apart in terms of performance. On some models, a special coating called PrintShield™ helps prevent smudges for a practical approach to premium design. Still, there's no smart connectivity that may be lacking for the tech-savvy user.
Cost & Affordability
Prices range from the mid-to-high, with KitchenAid dishwashers starting from around $1,000 to advanced models for $1,800. They may not be in the very budget-friendly category, but due to their exceptional performance, durable features, and added premium features, they are worth every dime for the serious cook or busy family.
Conclusion
KitchenAid dishwashers are great for families and serious cooks who want high performance, good drying, and design flexibility. Some may be put off by the lack of smart features, but with their solid construction and continued performance, KitchenAid remains a favorite among those who need form and function in equal measure.